Somerset County libraries offering Google Chromebooks

Google Chromebooks are now available for use in all branches of the Somerset County Library System (SCLS). These lightweight laptops feature full-sized keyboards and can be used anywhere within a library to browse the Internet or to work on documents.

Anybody with a valid SCLS library card and driver’s license can borrow a Chromebook for four hours at a time (with a renewal if nobody else is waiting for one). While they work best with a user’s Google account, it is not necessary. Work can be saved in the “cloud,” or on a flash drive. Chromebooks offer access to Google Drive, a web-based suite of productivity applications compatible with Microsoft Office.

“We’re delighted to offer this low-cost approach to computing. They don’t require special furniture, outlets or cabling and can be used anywhere in the library,” said Brian Auger, SCLS Director.

Rich Loomis, Electronic Services Librarian sees additional benefits for patrons. “The Chromebooks were inexpensive to purchase and are dead simple to maintain. They stay secure and update automatically through the Web and you can start using one eight seconds after it is turned on.”

The Somerset County Library System has branches in Bridgewater, Bound Brook, Hillsborough, Manville, at the Mary Jacobs Library in Rocky Hill, North Plainfield, Peapack & Gladstone, Somerville, Warren Township and Watchung.